At the end of the first film, the powerful Dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp) was captured by MACUSA (Magical Congress of the United States of America), with the help of Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne). Nevertheless, making good on his threat, Grindelwald escaped custody and has set about gathering followers, most unsuspecting of his true agenda: to raise pureblood wizards up to rule over all non-magical beings. In an effort to thwart Grindelwald’s plans, Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) enlists his former student Newt Scamander, who agrees to help, unaware of the dangers that lie ahead (Rotten Tomatoes).

Having seen all of the Harry Potter films and the first Fantastic Beasts I was very much looking forward to seeing this latest installment for I am a total sci-fi/fantasy film junkie. The first installment was wonderful but had some elements I did not like surrounding some of the animals. This film on the other hand took the best parts of the first film and not only made them better but introduced several new characters who only add to the depth and richness of this genre. Casting Law as Dumbledore is a stroke of genius because he is a fantastic actor and perfect for this role. There are several sub-plots going on behind the main story and that is what keeps the moviegoer interested.

Writer J.K. Rowling is one of the best writers on the planet and I look forward to whatever she brings us into the future. As expected, the visual effects in this film are stunning because I am sure their budget was enormous and it shows. This film grabs you at the start and keeps you in the game until the end and, yes, they left the ending wide open for another installment, which I very much look forward to seeing.

Director Steve McQueen, a filmmaker known for his bleak and powerful films Shame and Twelve Years A Slave, has a new film in theaters that shares his dark and cynical style, but still manages to be entertaining and empowering. With Widows, McQueen takes on a heist film that offers incendiary action and a dark sense of humor. This kind of flick is right at home during an era in America that feels riddled with selfishness, greed, and the hunger for power. As desolate and cold things currently are in the real world, McQueen’s latest offers a ray of hope, through its protagonists who refuse to take the world’s hate and uncaring lying down.

Viola Davis stars as Veronica Rawlings, a Chicago teacher’s union delegate and recent widow to husband Harry (Liam Neeson). Harry was a career thief whose last heist with his crew went terribly wrong. After their husbands get killed in their botched heist, Veronica, Linda (Michelle Rodriguez), Alice (Elizabeth Debicki), and Amanda (Carrie Coon) must all deal with the aftermath of their deaths, which also includes some debts for their past misbehavior. In particular, Harry died owing a massive debt to gangster/ambitious politician Jamal Manning (Bryan Tyree Henry). When Jamal and his brother Jatemme (Daniel Kaluuya) threaten the widows over the debt, Veronica rallies the ladies together and plans a heist to clear the debt and keep everyone safe.

Based on the British series of the same name by Lydia La Plante, Widows is one badass heist flick that offers some intelligent social commentary about politics, greed, and the treatment of women in America. Writer/director McQueen and co-writer Gillian Flynn have made an epic crime film that covers a lot of thematic material and manages to do so in 129 minutes. Though some of the beats and themes have been handled previously, the filmmakers make it all more relevant to various problems which trouble the United States today.

The movie features a prodigious supporting cast of amazing talents which also includes Cynthia Erivo, Colin Farrell, Jackie Weaver, Robert Duvall, Garret Dillahunt, Jon Bernthal, and Lukas Haas. I was also impressed with the performances by Michelle Rodriguez, Daniel Kaluuya, and Bryan Tyree Henry. However, the real standouts in this film are Viola Davis and Elizabeth Debicki.

Debicki portrays what probably is the most compelling character in the film and does so with much genuine torment and pathos. Because of her attractive looks and sweet nature, Alice has suffered from abuse and other kinds of mistreatment from men and even family. Debicki does an outstanding job of fleshing out a very well written and developed character. The superb performance of Viola Davis comes at no surprise whatsoever.

If any one actress right now personifies strength, power and presence, that woman would be Viola Davis. Davis shines beautifully here as a strong and intelligent lady who has extraordinary survival skills. Her character may be overwhelmed, disillusioned, and utterly frightened, but she will prevail or die trying. That’s exactly what Viola Davis brings to this role. She makes the audience feel her fears and emotions, but also her determination to overcome the difficult challenges she faces.

And though Widows is probably not Steve McQueen’s best film, it is definitely his most empowering one. His cinematic world can be cruel, unforgiving and utterly selfish, but the protagonists in his latest movie will fight tooth and nail to rise above this. This spirit is what should drive all who are faced with seemingly impossible challenges or problems. This movie offers a much-needed attitude that shoves a massive middle finger into the face of adversity.

Considering that this movie comes from the director of Daddy’s Home and Daddy’s Home 2, I went into this screening with low expectations. I just could not find much entertainment value in these two previous films by Sean Anders. Regarding his latest entry, Instant Family, however, I was pleasantly surprised. Though the attempts at humor don’t always work and often come across as heavy-handed, this film offers some genuinely heartfelt messages about foster parenting and the heartbreaking experiences that foster children often go through. Sure the presentation isn’t superbly executed, but Sean Anders and his co-writer John Morris put some genuine love into this fictionalized adaptation of Anders’s real experiences as a foster parent.

Rose Byrne and Mark Wahlberg star as Ellie and Pete, a childless married couple who have maintained a successful career flipping houses. As hard as they work and as much as they enjoy the fruits of their labor, both husband and wife feel like something is missing. At the same time, they are afraid to attempt parenthood for the first time. In an attempt to give parenting a trial run, Pete and Ellie decided to enter the foster parenting program. What they don’t initially realize is that this special kind of parenting presents some unique challenges of its own.

Despite the spotty amount of humor that actually works, I enjoyed this film overall. What works best is when the silliness gets set aside, and the realities of the foster parenting experience comes into play. Because Anders can honestly speak from his personal experience, this gives the film a definite advantage. Anders and Morris do not shy away from the ugliness and high stress that affects not only the foster parents, but also the children who are displaced from their birth parents. And that’s what makes this movie work. The beats involving the serious and emotional side of things work so well that they certainly touched my heart.

It also really helped that the lead cast members put their hearts into their respective roles. Rose Byrne gives a solid turn that mixes humor, stress, anger, and heartbreak. Mark Wahlberg does his usual hyper and slightly angry schtick, and it actually works well for his character in this movie. He is quite credible in the role of a father who is caring, but sometimes has trouble expressing his love. His character also wants to be “the cool dad,” but often fails in achieving this goal.

Isabella Moner stars as Lizzy, the oldest of the foster trio taken in by Pete and Ellie. Fifteen year-old Lizzy has often had to play the role of adult while caring for her younger siblings Juan (Gustavo Quiroz) and Lita (Julianna Gamiz). Moner gives an impressive performance as the strong and willful young lady, a bright teen with some serious trust issues. The movie also features some enjoyable performances and appearances by Octavia Spencer, Tig Notaro, Tom Segura, Allyn Rachel, Margo Martindale, Julie Hagerty and Iliza Shlesinger.

And because the filmmakers and the cast all seem to have their hearts in the right place, they all manage to pull off this lovable and poignant comedy film. With Daddy’s Home and Daddy’s Home 2, Sean Anders didn’t have a more personal stake in making those films. Because Instant Family serves as a reflection of his own life and what he truly believes, he proves himself as a solid writer and director who can genuinely speak from the heart through film. I would like to see him take on better projects in the future, because when he really puts his heart and mind into it, he can produce quality material.

The Wizarding World saga continues with what is essentially its second chapter in the franchise. This follow up to Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them picks up months after the events of the previous film and attempts to delve into darker and more mature territory with stronger and more obvious connections to the Harry Potter movies. Though the movie does accomplish this, it also runs a little lengthy and heavy with exposition. The movie may offer audiences a heavier chapter with greater stakes, but the filmmakers bog it down with explanations that often distract and detract from all the fun magical material.

Since the last film, fugitive dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp) has been kept safely locked up and disarmed. Still, the intelligent and powerful wizard manages to escape and proceeds to take his dastardly plans to a larger scale. These plans involve recruiting the powerful, but tormented wizard Creedence Barebone (Ezra Miller) who has been searching for the truth behind his mysterious background. Meanwhile, the Magical Congress of the United States and its British counterpart hope to thwart Grindelwald’s plans and eliminate the potentially greater threat of Creedence. Convinced that the authorities are going about things the wrong way, Professor Dumbledore (Jude Law) asks his beloved former student Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) to find and protect Creedence before it is too late

Written by J.K. Rowling and directed by David Yates, this latest entry in the Wizarding World does offer a more compelling story, but often struggles to present it in compelling ways. Too much time lags when the characters try to explain (in sometimes tiresome detail) the connections some of the characters have and their motivations. Honestly, this kind of story would work much better as part of a television series where episodes could be dedicated to better develop these stories and plots. When attempted in 134 minute film, the pacing suffers. The other problem it causes is that certain turning points for characters do get rushed, thus softening their power.

Nevertheless, I still enjoyed this movie overall. Sure, the themes and subplots are highly derivative and not executed outstandingly, but Yates, Rowling and the crew do manage to make a film with fun moments, gorgeous visuals, and multiple nods to the Harry Potter stories. I am sure that fans of this movie universe will absolutely love this film and its stronger connections to the Potter films. However, I also feel that casual admirers will get lost in all of the subplot clutter and magical mumbo jumbo.

Another positive aspect in its favor is the mostly great acting executed by the talented cast. Johnny Depp gives a delightfully restrained and subtle turn as Gellert Grindelwald, a seductive, but calculating villain who actually makes some valid points for his wicked deeds. Eddie Redmayne once again perfectly embodies the sweet and boyish Newt Scamander, a shy and unassuming wizard who would rather tend to his beloved creatures than get involved in the drama ensuing around him. Jude Law makes for a welcome new addition to the franchise as the younger Albus Dumbledore. Making some welcome and enjoyable reprisals are Katherine Waterston, Dan Fogel, Alison Studel, and Ezra Miller. This new installment also features some fun work by newcomers Zoë Kravitz, Callum Turner, Claudia Kim, and William Nadylam.

Despite the film’s problems, I still recommend the latest Fantastic Beasts chapter, but this recommendation is much stronger for the Harry Potter fans. I think that those casually invested will find themselves often bored, but occasionally enchanted with the film’s real magic. I am curious about what is coming next, but I cannot honestly say that this movie left me desperately wanting more.

Set in contemporary Chicago, amidst a time of turmoil, four women, Viola Davis as Veronica, Michelle Rodriguez as Linda, Elizabeth Debecki as Alice and Cynthia Erivo as Belle, with nothing in common accept a debt left behind by their dead husbands’ criminal activities, take fate into their own hands, and conspire to forge a future on their own terms (IMDB).

The main characters in this film start out from a somewhat passive and meek point of view but circumstances force their hand. They really do not have a choice but to take action. I admired them in their endeavor because they are trying to save themselves.

For some reason I was not expecting much from this film and was pleasantly surprised at several unexpected plot twists along the way. The main problem with this film is the length. Why do filmmakers think long uninterrupted supposedly thoughtful pauses are essential in conveying a characters angst? I would not mind them if they are rare but some directors think they are a major part of the plotline and it is annoying. We get it and do not need it to see it repeatedly.

Overall, this film is well made and acted. I particularly liked seeing the main characters come out of their shells to protect themselves, their children. I would save some money and catch this one as a matinee.

TVR is giving away two DVDs to two randomly chosen winners. NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY. Must be 18 or older to enter. Playtime Can Be Magical! Bring Home the Glitz on Disney DVD November 20th. Includes Six 22-minute Episodes! Grab some glitter, add a dash of “ooh la la,” sprinkle in original songs and… Voilà! Get set to pour on the fun with Fancy Nancy. With her love of all things fabulous, fancy and French, this little lady can change bland into chic. All it takes is a boundless imagination, help from friends and family, and a sunny approach to life that celebrates the differences that make everyone unique and magnifique!

To enter for a chance to win a digital copy and you live in the Austin, Texas area, email TVR at trueviewreviews2@gmail.com and in the subject heading put, “I Want Magical Playtime.” As always, Please spread the word!

TVR is giving away two Blu-Ray copies to two randomly chosen winners. NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY. Must be 18 or older to enter. From Disney•Pixar and the creative minds who brought you The Incredibles, Finding Nemo and Toy Story comes the studio’s latest collection of delightful and inspiring animated stories – Pixar Shorts: Volume 3. Thirteen shorts including Oscar®-winner Piper (Best Animated Short,2016) and nominees Sanjay’s Super Team (2015) and Lou (2017). With unforgettable characters, insightful bonus extras, and cutting-edge animation, it’s a must-own for any movie fan!

To enter for a chance to win a copy and you live in the Austin, Texas area, email TVR at trueviewreviews2@gmail.com and in the subject heading put, “Who Likes Pixar Shorts?” As always, Please spread the word!

Short Films &Bao (7:43) – Theatrical release of Incredibles 2 (2018)

Run Times:Lou (6:43) – Theatrical release of Cars 3 (2017)

Piper (6:05) – Theatrical release of Finding Dory (2016)

Sanjay’s Super Team (7:04) – Theatrical release of The Good Dinosaur (2015)

Bonus*: Filmmaker Commentary – Each short’s filmmaker(s) will provide commentary on their film.

Filmmaker Intros – Each short’s filmmaker(s) will provide an into to their film.

Making Bao – Director Domee Shi shares her secret recipe for making an animated short – discussing how her rich cultural heritage, unique relationship with her mom and her love of food all informed the making of the food-fantasy Bao.

Caricature: A Horrible Way of Saying ‘I Love You’ – At Pixar, the utmost sign of respect and admiration from your peers is to become a caricature. Take a look at some hilarious story artists’ representations of their colleagues.

2Mini-Movies – Marine Life Interviews & Miss Fritter’s Racing Skoool

Street Date: November 13, 2018

Product Sku’s: Digital HD/SD

Digital Bundle of Volumes 1, 2 & 3

Digital Bundle of Volume 3 + Incredibles 2

Multi-Screen Edition (Blu-ray+DVD+Digital Code)

Total Run Time: Approx. 76 minutes

Rated: US: N/A; CE/CF: Rated G

Blu-ray: 1080P High Definition, English 7.1 HDMA and 2.0 Descriptive Audio, Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital Language Tracks, English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles

DVD: English and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital and English 2.0 Descriptive Audio Language Tracks, English SDH and Spanish Subtitles (Apply to short films only)

Ever since Stieg Larsson’s “Millennium” franchise was released in the United States, the triology of Swedish films based on crime novels became some of my top favorite films featuring the Lisbeth Salander character from his novels. All three films feature Michael Nyqvist as Mikael Blomkvist and Noomi Rapace as Lisbeth Salander. To this date they still are favorites, even though Hollywood has stepped in and made English language adaptations of Larrson’s stories and now from David Lagercrantz. Lizbeth’s character was written very well and now in the American adaptations, the depth of the character has been watered down to what U. S. audiences are familiar with.

“The Girl in the Spider’s Web” is based on the novel by the late author Larsson’s successor, David Lagercrantz and it is not a total loss by any means. I am sure those viewers who are not familiar with the original Swedish films will enjoy it for what it is and director Fede Alvarez (“Don’t Breathe”) is excellent in his delivery of the big action, fast – paced thriller.

In this latest adaptation by the Americans, actresses Noomi Rapace and Rooney Mara have been replaced by Claire Foy (“The Crown,” “First Man”). She is very good in the role from the screenplay written by Jay Basu, Alvarez and Steven Knight, based on the David Lagercrantz novel with Larsson’s characters considering there is limited depth to Salander’s character as we know what fans have seen before. Icelandic-Swedish actor Sverrir Gudnason (“Borg McEnroe”) stars as Mikael Blomkvist, but the English script is not strong enough to present any chemistry between him and the co-star as they historically had in the past stories. This script does not do enough to show newer audiences what is Lizbeth’s connection to Blomkvist and why she would seek him out with her mission.

Salander first “takes care” of an abusive husband and sets the lady and her child up for life with his money. She is soon contacted by a former National Security Agency (NSA) employee, Frans Balder (Stephen Merchant), to help with a near impossible task and that is music to her ears. What she thinks is a no brainer job results in unforeseen steps in the system and other obstacles (Russian thugs) she has to address first. When Balder thinks he made a mistake, he takes his young son August (Christopher Convery) to seek help from the Swedish Secret Service (SAPO). Deputy Director Gabriella Grane (Synnøve Macody Lund) helps him, but when the American NSA agent, Edwin Needham (Lakeith Stanfield, “Sorry to Bother You”) shows up in Stockholm, SAPO is not pleased with the American interference.

Naturally, the Russians step in and now there is an appearance of Salander’s long-lost evil sister Camilla (Sylvia Hoeks), not seen – just mentioned in the prior films. There are plenty of action sequences of who will end up with the very item that kicked off the mission, including the usual explosions, car chases, and usual American fare we have been fed before. Not all bland, but just the usual.

Salander has had her history of trauma since childhood and the face – off with her sister is about the first time I remember seeing Salander appear other than the tough cookie she portrays. Let’s see what the next adaptation will bring.